Cambodian PM proposes ICJ resolution for border dispute with Thailand

As tensions escalate, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has proposed that the disputes over three ancient temples along Thai-Cambodian un-demarcated border be resolved at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, according to a report in the Khmer Times on Sunday.

The Khmer Times reported that Hun Manet, in a social media post, said that Cambodia is ready to include a new item on the JBC agenda, namely a proposal to bring the long-standing disputes surrounding the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Toch and Ta Kro Bei temples and the Mombei area to the ICJ for international legal adjudication.

These areas, located near the shared border in Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces, have been flashpoints in past disputes, reported the Khmer Times.

Hun Manet has warned that the recent border clash, provoked by “small extremist group”, has reignited tensions and fuelled nationalist sentiments in Thailand and Cambodia.

According to the report, Hun Met restated Cambodia’s peaceful intentions and commitment to resolving border issues through technical mechanisms and legal principles.

He warned, though, that Cambodia has the right to self-defence, including the use of its armed forces in case of any attempt to invade Cambodian territory by force.

Thailand has bitter experience with the ICJ, with the loss to Cambodia of the Preah Vihear ancient ruins in 1962.